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CEFR full form - Levels, Why it is Used in IELTS?

Candidates can find out CEFR full form in this article. It includes the meaning of CEFR, Levels of CEFR, and why CEFR is used in IELTS. Stay tuned for more details.
authorImageSupriya Shrivastava11 Jan, 2025
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CEFR full form

CEFR full form : Common European Framework of Reference for Languages - A reference to language proficiency and learning standards. If you plan to study abroad, you should be familiar with the CEFR, which stands for the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Read everything you need about CEFR full form, CEFR-certified levels, the meaning, and much more.

It is a well-known framework for describing people's language skill levels in a standardized manner. Studying abroad often requires exams, typically divided into language proficiency (such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, DSH, DELF, etc.) and aptitude tests (GRE, GMAT, SAT, etc.). While aptitude tests may or may not be necessary depending on the country to which you are applying, institutions in other countries frequently demand one or more proficiency in language tests.

What is IELTS Exam?

Furthermore, enrolling in European countries is more or less compulsory. However, the level of proficiency necessary for different courses varies, which is where CEFR comes in. So, what is CEFR, and what are the different levels required for studying abroad? This post will explain all you need to know about CEFR and IELTS CEFR Levels . Here are some important CEFR details:

CEFR Level to IELTS Score Comparison

What is CEFR?

CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages): The Council of Europe created and established Learning, Teaching, and Assessment as a reference standard as part of the "Language Learning for European Citizenship" project. Developed to provide a standard that may be used as a normal scale to measure proficiency in multiple languages spoken on the European continent, this is currently widely used by institutions around the world to establish language proficiency markers. The method was meant to verify linguistic proficiency for non-native speakers of the language.

What is IELTS Exam?

Levels of CEFR

On a six-point scale, the scale is divided into three levels of proficiency: Beginners, Intermediate, and Advanced (A1 for beginners and C2 for those who have mastered a language). Here's what they mean:
Levels of CEFR
Level Group Level Description
A - Basic User A1 - Beginner The level describes a very basic knowledge of the language, such as the ability to recognize expressions that are frequently used, introduce oneself, and give a description of one's residence, among other things. When spoken to slowly, methodically, and with support, a person with an A1 level frequently struggles to grasp and speak the language.
A2 - Elementary The ability to talk about everyday requirements in the language is what makes the A2 level a little better than the A1 level. The individual can describe the immediate surroundings, comprehend everyday language, and provide straightforward answers to questions.
B - Independent User B1 - Intermediate In terms of the individual's capacity to interact in the language with appropriate ease, this level surpasses the preceding one. Can converse in somewhat well-formed words in areas of interest—but not all areas—and move with moderate comfort. Additionally, the individual may express their opinions more clearly.
B2 - Upper-Intermediate The fundamental comprehension of the language has not changed from the B2 level, but there has been a noticeable increase in replies' spontaneity and fluency. The applicant can communicate with a native speaker by creating and using precise, well-written phrases. Additionally, the level denotes an advancement in the way that he or she expresses their thoughts.
C - Proficient User C1 - Advanced The higher degrees of language competency known as the C Level denote a level at which a person can easily speak, write, and talk in a foreign language. The vocabulary has also been noticeably expanded, and the fluency has been significantly increased. This level describes a person's proficiency in using the language effectively and fluently in academic or professional contexts.
C2 - Proficient This is the highest level of proficiency, indicating the applicants' unrestricted capacity to communicate in a foreign language. The capacity to defend and articulate one's position while also appreciating the subtleties of language further enhances fluency and vocabulary. Stated differently, this is the closest one can get to speaking the language fluently.

Why is CEFR used in IELTS?

Before getting into the IELTS band score and CEFR level, it is important to understand the significance and goals of CEFR. The CEFR was created to provide more standardized scales for measuring fluency in languages using more reliable indicators. It is utilized for many kinds of language evaluations internationally, including the IELTS. It is also used to convert TOEFL scores. Here are some further objectives of the CEFR test.
  • Supports individual language students' growth and advancement.
  • Helps define can-do and positive descriptions that are suitable for the student's requirements, interests, and age.
  • Supports the development of teaching materials while encouraging more cooperation among those teaching various types of languages.
  • It also improves standardized testing, teaching, and learning.
  • It allows for the comparison of different types of certifications.
  • The CEFR aims to encourage language professionals, including learners, to consider questions such as those suggested in Notes for the User while analyzing various teaching or learning situations.
  • It also assists institutions in defining what they want their learners to achieve and how to do it.
IELTS Exam Important Links
IELTS Syllabus IELTS Band Score IELTS Cut Off
IELTS Exam Fees IELTS Exam Pattern IELTS Score Validity

Guidance of Physics Wallah

IELTS coaching from Physics Wallah is intended to help students get a high band score on the exam. PW IELTS coaching aims to improve students' English language skills so they may pursue college or find employment in English-speaking countries. Through IELTS online classes, Physics Wallah's highly qualified teachers can assist you in strengthening your English language skills. PW offers general training and academic coaching for the IELTS.
IELTS Exam Other Related Links
IELTS Exam IELTS Full Form
IELTS  Registration IELTS Eligibility Criteria
IELTS Exam Pattern IELTS Academic Vs General
IELTS Mock Test IDP IELTS Test Centers

CEFR full form FAQs

Q1 - How important is CEFR?

Ans - The CEFR applies more standardized scales for measuring fluency in languages that have more reliable indicators. It measures the proficiency of language learners on a scale of A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2, with A1 representing the basic user and C2 representing the skilled person.

Q2 - What Is the Meaning of CEFR Level B2 in IELTS?

Ans - CEFR Level B2 on the IELTS exam is normally equivalent to a band score of 5.5 to 6.5. This level suggests that the student has upper-intermediate English proficiency.

Q3 - What is the CEFR Level in the IELTS Exam?

Ans - The CEFR level of the IELTS exam is a measure of English language proficiency based on the CEFR framework. The IELTS scores are matched to the CEFR levels, ranging from A1 to C2.

Q4 - Is 6.5 IELTS B2 or C1?

Ans - A 6.5 IELTS score is generally considered to be at the upper end of CEFR Level B2 or the lower end of CEFR Level C1.

Q5 - What is the CEFR level for IELTS 7?

Ans - An IELTS score of 7 reflects CEFR Level C1, which indicates advanced English proficiency.

Q6 - Is CEFR C1 good?

Ans - Yes, CEFR C1 is regarded as a high level of proficiency, indicating that the individual can effectively use the language for the majority of academic and professional tasks.

Q7 - What is the passing score in CEFR?

Ans - The CEFR does not have a passing score because it is a framework to evaluate proficiency. A CEFR level of B2 or higher is generally considered satisfactory.

Q8 - What is the highest CEFR level in IELTS?

Ans - The highest CEFR level in IELTS is C2, which corresponds to an IELTS score of 8.5-9.
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